Lockhart Competes for Job as State School Superintendent

Utah House Speaker Becky Lockhart wants to be the next state schools chief. Lockhart announced today she’s officially applied for the position of State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Less than a year ago, Lockhart signaled she might challenge Republican Governor Gary Herbert for his seat in 2016, but those speculations might have come too soon now that Lockhart is lining up to capture the state’s highest office in public education.

Lockhart, who is a Registered Nurse, sent an email to members of the media Friday confirming her decision.

“As I reach the end of my Legislative service, I have spent many hours pondering the possibilities and opportunities for me to continue to serve Utah and her residents” , she said.

During 2014 general legislative session the Provo Republican backed a two to three hundred million dollar initiative that would put iPads or similar electronic devices in the hands of every public school student in Utah. The measure failed.

The state board of education is tasked with selecting a new superintendent. They’re expected to make a decision in October.

State School Superintendent Martell Menlove announced his retirement in March.